Prospects for the development of wine tourism as a key direction of agrotourism in the Rostov region

Background. The article analyzes the prospects for the development of wine tourism in the Rostov region as a key area of agritourism. The authors consider wine tourism as a dynamically developing sector that combines cultural, gastronomic and natural aspects, which can become an important element of the region’s economy. The Rostov region, with its favorable climatic conditions and rich history of viticulture, has significant potential for the development of this area. The article analyzes the current state and prospects for the development of wine tourism, and offers recommendations for its successful implementation. Particular attention is paid to the integration of wine tourism with other types of tourism, such as cultural, ecological and rural tourism. The authors emphasize the need for infrastructure development, active promotion of the region in tourist markets and state support for the successful development of wine tourism. The article also discusses the Don Valley cluster, which combines the natural, cultural and infrastructural resources of the region, making it a promising area for tourism development. Specific activities such as wine festivals, master classes and educational programs are proposed that can help promote the region as a wine-making center.

Purpose. The purpose of this article is to analyse the prospects for the development of wine tourism in the Rostov region as one of the key areas of agritourism. The authors consider wine tourism as a dynamically developing industry combining cultural, gastronomic and natural aspects, which can become an important element of the region’s economy.

Materials and methods. Currently, such a direction as agrotourism is becoming increasingly popular, an important component of which is wine tourism, which contributes to the development and promotion of products of small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises. In this regard, there is a tendency to organize narrowly focused wine tourist routes, including visits to vineyards and tastings of the products produced there.

Agricultural tourism has several directions in determining its meaning. Thus, N. A. Mironova, 2020 and M. V. Muravyeva, 2016 consider the legal aspects of the Russian Federation in relation to agricultural tourism, which reveal the type of tourism under study as an activity that is directly aimed at improving social conditions, increasing the economic efficiency of a particular rural area and creating a competitive environment in the tourism market through the participation of tourists in agricultural processes. They emphasize that agritourism allows tourists not only to relax in the natural environment, but also to take part in agricultural work, which makes it attractive for those who seek an authentic experience.

Results. The development of wine tourism in the Rostov region demonstrates significant potential, but requires a systematic approach and consideration of current trends. The analysis conducted allowed us to identify key aspects that can contribute to the successful implementation of this direction.

Rostov Region has unique natural conditions for viticulture. The region’s climate, which combines moderate continentality and a sufficient number of sunny days, creates favorable conditions for growing industrial grape varieties. According to the Russian Ministry of Agriculture, in 2022, the area of vineyards in the region amounted to 1,850 hectares, which is 15% more than in 2020. This indicates a growing interest in winemaking in the region.

The infrastructure of wine-making enterprises is actively developing in the region. Today, there are more than 20 wineries in the region, including large enterprises such as Tsimlyanskie Viny and Elbuzd. These enterprises not only produce wine, but also offer excursions, tastings and master classes, which forms the basis for wine tourism.

Another important aspect is the growing interest in domestic tourism in Russia. Currently, there is a reorientation towards domestic tourism. This creates favorable conditions for the development of wine tourism in the Rostov region, which can offer unique tourist products.

Conclusion. The conducted research allows us to draw a number of conclusions. Rostov Region has favorable natural conditions for viticulture and a rich history of winemaking, which creates a solid foundation for the development of wine tourism. There are already more than 20 wineries in the region offering excursions, tastings and master classes, which forms the basis for further development of this area.

The Don Valley cluster has significant potential for tourism development. The combination of natural, cultural and infrastructure resources makes the cluster a promising direction for tourism development in the Rostov Region. Its unique natural conditions, rich cultural and historical heritage and developed transport network create favorable conditions for attracting tourists.